Its report said the Rabaul Queen was carrying at least 80 more passengers than it was permitted to and the crew was neither competent nor qualified.

Acting Police Commissioner, Simon Kauba, says detectives are yet to start collecting evidence due to a shortage of funds.

Mr Kauba says money has now been allocated and an investigation should start in mid-February.

The National Maritime Safety Authority was labelled as "incompetent" and "ineffective" in the commission's report.

National Maritime Safety Authority CEO, Chris Rupen, declined requests for an interview and is yet to respond to emailed questions regarding what, if any of the inquiry's recommendations have been implemented.